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Trans-Pacific Partnership Members Advance Negotiations in Brunei

Opening new markets and creating new sources of prosperity the Harper government’s focus as Canada continues to play important role in negotiations

August 30, 2013 - The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, today marked the conclusion of the 19th round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations, which took place in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, from August 22 to 30, 2013. Minister Fast was in Brunei last week to participate in a meeting of all TPP trade ministers.

“Opening new markets and creating good jobs, economic growth and greater prosperity for Canadian workers and families is why our government is pursuing deeper trade and investment ties in the fast-growing and dynamic Asia-Pacific region,” said Minister Fast. “The TPP negotiations are a key pillar of our government’s pro-trade plan, and I am pleased that Canada is playing a constructive and important role as we work to advance our interests and conclude an ambitious agreement in a timely manner.”

During the 19th round, negotiators built on the progress made to date in several areas, including on goods market access, rules of origin, investment, services, financial services, temporary entry, intellectual property, government procurement and environment.

Officials also wrapped up a technical meeting on labour provisions, which was held in Ottawa from August 26 to 29, 2013.

Twelve countries are currently participating in the TPP negotiations: Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam. Canada formally joined the negotiations on October 8, 2012.

The TPP market represents more than 792 million people and a combined GDP of $27.5 trillion—more than 38 percent of the world’s economy. An ambitious agreement that greatly reduces barriers to trade will benefit workers and families in every region of Canada by providing greater access for Canadian exporters to large, dynamic and fast-growing markets. And as Canada is at the international forefront of trade liberalization, the TPP will also improve Canada’s international competitiveness by solidifying our participation in lucrative trading blocs with fast-growing economies.